FOX
by Caroline Arnold & illustrated by Richard Hewett
Another entry about animals from frequent collaborators (Killer Whale, 1994, etc.), and this one's a gem. A full-color photo essay covers the world of the six fox species found in North America, with special emphasis given to the smallest of these, the kit fox, a clever and resourceful predator who lives in an extremely hostile environment. Details of how kit foxes live are fascinating; Arnold covers their homes, predatory activity, mating, family life, play, and communication. Two final sections deal with the dangers they face in the wild and the much greater danger they and all other fox species face from human beings. A useful index is included but the book's great strengths are its clear, highly informative text, and Hewett's stunning photos of these beautiful animals in their natural habitat, which, alas, is fast disappearing. (Nonfiction. 8-12)